Speed of Clean-Up Crew

[pvulgamo]

How fast does a clean up crew actually work? Last night my PJ Cardinal wasn't looking so hot and I can't find them today. I have a 20 gallon tank - I can't imagine if it died that it drifted somewhere I can't see, but for the life of me I can't find the darn thing. Most of the hiding spots are too small for this guy to fit in. I have some hermit crabs and an emerald crab - would they have cleaned that up overnight?

 

[HuduVudu]

Not likely, if your tank isn't fully mature i.e. greater than 2 years old.

 

[CMMorgan]

I guess that depends on how many hermits and emeralds you have ... and how hungry. I've had fish vanish --- never to find a trace. Then again.... PJ's are chill little buggers. Sometimes they find a little hidey place to watch Netflix and Chill. Give him a chance to pop out. If you don't see him in a couple days, assume the crabs had a snack. Keep an eye on your ammonia and parameters.